Cultural Dimensions Geert Hofstede

Cultural Dimensions per Geert-Hofstede

Costa Rica

They are very much focused on equality and consensus there is a less distance between blue-collar and white-collar workers. In collectivistic countries, trust, loyalty, personal relations and networking is essential. Not only does Costa Rica stand out on power distance, with a score of 21 on masculinity it is considered the most feminine society in Latin America and only 8 countries in the world score more feminine. Ticos are very afraid of any kind of personal criticism (together with their collectivistic values). There is a very high acceptance for women in business. Ticos are rather conservative, they do not always embrace strange and different ideas.

United States

American premise of “liberty and justice for all.” This is also evidenced by the focus on equal rights in all aspects of American society and government. Within American organizations, hierarchy is established for convenience, superiors are always accessible and managers rely on individual employees and teams for their expertise. USA is a highly individualistic country. Americans are not shy about approaching their prospective counterparts in order to obtain or seek information. In the business world, employees are expected to be self-reliant and display initiative. Typically, Americans “live to work” so that they can earn monetary rewards and attain higher status based on how good one can be. Americans tend to be more tolerant of ideas or opinions from anyone and allow the freedom of expression. The United States scores 29 on this dimension and is a short-term oriented culture. As a result, it is a culture focused on traditions and fulfilling social obligations.

Iran

People accept a hierarchical order in which everybody has a place and which needs no further justification. Hierarchy in an organization is seen as reflecting inherent inequalities, centralization is popular, subordinates expect to be told what to do and the ideal boss is a...